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Research team introduces mobile technology to the classroom

A research team at the University of Bath, in collaboration with educational datalogging company Sciencescope, has introduced mobile technology into the learning experiences of young people.

The research took place through the University’s CREATE Lab research group in the Department of Psychology, led by Dr Danaë Stanton Fraser. The group conducts research into the design and evaluation of mobile technologies and how they can be used to engage children in science learning.

Dr Stanton Fraser said: “There’s a loss of interest in science among young people. Introducing mobile technologies allows children to become active scientists, able to get very personalised data which increases their understanding of the work they are doing.”

David Crellin, owner of ScienceScope said: “Sciencescope designs, develops and manufactures equipment for science education and research. We were particularly excited to work with the University of Bath on this Knowledge Transfer project.

“The project enabled us to work very closely with schools to go into real science lessons and observe how the equipment was used in practice.”

Student Zoe Barnes, from Writhlington School near Radstock, said: “It’s much easier and more interesting to use this technology rather than just looking it up online or being told by a teacher. To have your own evidence from a data logger and actually see what’s going on is great. You can look at your own results - it’s your own experiment in a way.”

The project is being funded by the University's EPSRC Knowledge Transfer Account.

The aim of the research team is to engage teachers in methodologies and technologies that will enhance science lessons and result in more students choosing to study the subject. In collaboration with Sciencescope, the team is now looking to influence national policy associated with science teaching and to inspire more young people to love science.